Oscars Committee declares ‘Barbie’ as an adapted screenplay, not original
The “Barbie” Movie Ruled as Adapted Screenplay by Academy Committee
The highly anticipated “Barbie” movie has been officially classified as an adapted screenplay by the Writers Branch executive committee of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, according to a report by Variety. This decision comes after filmmakers Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach campaigned for it to be considered an original screenplay.
The film is expected to receive Oscar nominations in various categories, including Best Screenplay. However, it will face tougher competition in the Adapted category compared to the Original category. Other notable contenders in the Adapted category include Martin Scoresese’s “Killers Of The Flower Moon” and Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer.”
In the Best Original category, potential contenders include titles like “The Holdovers,” ”May December,” and the Cannes winner “Anatomy Of A Fall.”
While some moviegoers believe that screenplays should only be considered “adapted” if they are based on books or previous film versions of the same story, the Academy classifies movies as adapted if they are based on pre-existing characters, such as Barbie dolls.
A debate has sparked online regarding whether “Barbie” should be classified as adapted or original. Christopher Miller, writer and producer of “The Lego Movie,” stated that the Academy’s decision aligns with how they have classified movies in the past.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP
“FUN FACT: In 2014, the Academy deemed THE LEGO MOVIE an adapted screenplay even though we had already won the National Board of Review Best Original Screenplay award — because it was based on LEGO bricks and had a LEGO version of Batman as a character,” wrote Christopher Miller in a post on X.
“I think this is the right move. Not like it’s an insult to be nominated for original or adapted. At the end of the day, Barbie is a character/product already invented by Ruth Handler. I think that’s basis enough for adapted,” chimed in another social media user.
Despite its classification for the Oscars, “Barbie” was considered an original work by the Writers Guild of America and will compete in that category for the upcoming WGA Awards. However, the rules for nominating films differ between the Writers Guild and the Academy.
The fantasy comedy film “Barbie,” released in July 2023, has gained immense popularity, earning over $1.4 billion worldwide.
Official Academy Award nominations for all categories will be announced on January 23.
RELATED: Ben Shapiro Shreds ‘Barbie’ In Epic Full Review
What are the arguments made by the executive committee of the Writers Branch regarding the classification of the ”Barbie” movie as an adapted screenplay?
Ilms, the Academy Committee has a different perspective. The executive committee of the Writers Branch argues that the “Barbie” movie is an adapted screenplay because it is based on the popular Mattel toy line and established characters. They believe that adapting a beloved brand into a screenplay requires a unique skill set and creativity, just like adapting a novel or a play.
This decision has sparked a debate within the film community. Some argue that the Writers Branch is diluting the distinction between original and adapted screenplays. They believe that by classifying the “Barbie” movie as adapted, the Academy is undermining the recognition and value of truly original screenplays.
However, others support the committee’s decision, highlighting the challenges of adapting a toy line into a coherent and engaging story. They argue that adapting an existing property involves navigating existing lore, character expectations, and fanbase reception. The ability to breathe new life into a well-known brand requires creativity and skill that should be acknowledged in the adapted screenplay category.
The “Barbie” movie has generated significant buzz since the announcement of its development. Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, renowned filmmakers known for their work on films like “Lady Bird” and “Marriage Story,” have been attached to the project as writers and directors. Their involvement further fueled expectations for an original screenplay classification due to their reputation for creating unique and thought-provoking stories.
Despite the committee’s decision, the filmmakers remain proud of their work and continue to emphasize the original aspects of the script. They argue that while the characters and brand may be familiar, they have crafted a story and narrative that is distinctly their own. Gerwig and Baumbach aim to challenge preconceived notions about the “Barbie” franchise and deliver a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
As the awards season approaches, the competitive landscape for the ”Barbie” movie becomes even more intense. With strong contenders in both the adapted and original screenplay categories, it remains to be seen how the film will fare in its quest for recognition. Regardless of the outcome, the film has already made headlines and ignited discussions on the definition and classification of adapted screenplays.
In the end, the decision of the Academy Committee will stand, and the “Barbie” movie will proudly compete among its peers in the adapted screenplay category. Whether it wins or not, the film’s classification as an adapted screenplay has already marked a significant moment in the industry and opened up conversations about the boundaries of adaptation and originality in filmmaking.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
